Nov 23 Synth Duo Lautier Drop Rousing Debut Single "Thoughts"

Back in university, guitarist Conor Cleere and vocalist Sam Ainsworth met. Quickly, the two talented musicians merged their sonic skills as Lautier, a synth duo crafting a one-of-a-kind blend of jazzy influence with classic rock. The result is a dynamic soundscape melding the two genres but with bursts of hip-hop and blues treatment as well, as can be heard on “Thoughts,” their debut single released earlier this month.

"‘Thoughts’ is our meditative ode to the sometimes overwhelming feeling of uncertainty and the search for clarity that accompanies this,” Lautier told us when we asked them about the track. “As this is our debut single, we wanted to create something which was both meaningful and groovy to set the precedent for our upcoming releases. We think we achieved that with 'Thoughts'."

Indeed they have. The quick track — clocking in at under three and a half minutes — does exactly that, experimenting (and succeeding) with a smooth groove to it but produced thoughtfully, carefully, and with great attention to detail from both Lautier members. The song opens with a cool electronic plink pulsing among shimmering percussion before the warble of a clean guitar riff kicks in, followed by breathy vocals offering a relaxed delivery. The arrangement evolves into a groovy soundscape of new synth tones and hints of rock, but it doesn’t grow in an aggressive manner — it builds slowly, smoothly, and seamlessly, as if traveling through new levels of sonic detail.

Soon, a woozy horn section joins, its impassioned crescendo fusing perfectly into the searing guitar solo, the electric wail adding a depth to the quick beats and percussive slaps. The sheer quantity of elements in “Thoughts” — and their inherently warring tones — shouldn’t work, but they do, only because the guys of Lautier have thought carefully about how best to use them, how to give attention to every layer, and how to build an arrangement that both intrigues and soothes. It’s an impressive feat and suggests great things to come for Lautier. We’re in for the ride.